Is Early Orthodontic Treatment for Children Necessary?
Your Child’s Evaluation for Peace of Mind & Proper Planning
Parents are usually relieved to learn that “early orthodontics” at Reese Orthodontics is NOT about getting braces! Rather, overall oral health is affected by proper alignment and symmetry of your smile, jaw, and face. Your child’s early evaluation for Charleston braces is not simply for aesthetics, but will help guide the growth and development of your child’s jaw and teeth – preventing more serious problems later.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that your child’s initial orthodontic evaluation should occur by age 7 – the time when adult teeth are erupting. At Reese Orthodontics, we evaluate erupting teeth to detect issues such as a possible overbite, open bite, crowding, or gummy smiles. We can tell if your child will benefit from early treatment, as many potential problems may not be visibly apparent until prevention is too late. Beginning treatment at this optimal time not only ensures the greatest result but also means less time and expense down the road.
Not sure if your child would benefit from an orthodontic evaluation? Reese Orthodontics is to answer any question you may have about the process!
Signs that Your Child Needs an Orthodontic Assessment
According to our Charleston orthodontist, treatment at this early stage may not even be necessary. However, it is especially important to schedule a screening with our board-certified specialist, Dr. Reese, if you notice any of the following conditions in your child:
- Crowded or misplaced teeth
- Difficulty in chewing or biting food
- Early loss of baby teeth
- Mouth breathing
- Finger or thumb sucking
- Jaws that “pop” when opening and closing
- Misaligned teeth that close abnormally or without touching
- Jaws and teeth that are not in proportion to the rest of the face
What Is the Benefit of Early Treatment?
While Dr. Reese says parents don’t need to rush into obtaining Charleston braces for their young children, some oral health issues can be avoided with early screening and treatment, including:
- Open bites – when the upper and lower teeth are unable to physically touch each other when the jaws are closed
- Crossbites – when the two rows of teeth don’t meet correctly. A misaligned bite can cause tooth decay, gum disease, stress on the jaw muscles, headaches, and more.
- Speech impediments
- Injury to protruding teeth
Your Child’s Evaluation for Charleston Braces is FREE at Reese Orthodontics
We invite you to schedule your child’s complimentary Dr. Reese Smile Analysis by calling 843.573.7279 or by clicking here for our convenient online appointment form. Regardless of the outcome, after consulting with Dr. Reese parents often feel reassured about their child’s overall oral health. They also appreciate having the opportunity to acquire a wealth of information about cutting-edge orthodontic treatment options – for now or in the future. Call Reese Orthodontics at 843.573.7279 and let us put your mind at ease!
As one of the premier orthodontic practices in Charleston, SC, our team at Reese Orthodontics also provides 5-star-rated children’s orthodontic care to patients from West Ashley, North Charleston, Hanahan, Goose Creek, Hollywood, Johns Island, Downtown Charleston, Mount Pleasant, James Island & Daniel Island, SC.
